News Article

National Archives Foundation Mourns the Loss of Forrest E. Mars, Jr.

July 29, 2016

The National Archives Foundation today issued the following statement from Executive Director Patrick M. Madden following the death of Forrest E. Mars, Jr:

“Forrest Mars and the Mars Family have been great friends to the National Archives and the National Archives Foundation. Mr. Mars was not merely a visitor to the National Archives Museum, but he had a passion for history that he activated through the Mars family and Mars Incorporated to support our work to make the resources of the National Archives available to a wider audience.

“In particular, Mars Incorporated has sponsored the National Archives’ popular exhibit ‘What’s Cooking, Uncle Sam? The Government’s Effect on the American Diet’ and its national tour, and continues its long-standing support of our widely-attended annual July 4 celebration on the National Mall, and sleepovers in the Rotunda, which give young people and their parents an unprecedented opportunity to literally spend the night with the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Declaration of Independence.

“As we mourn his loss, we will continue our on-going relationship with the Mars family and Mars Incorporated to ensure that Mr. Mars’ vision for expanded outreach and access to our nation’s treasures remains part of his legacy.”